myofibroblasts

[myofibroblast, myofibroblastic]

Myofibroblasts have been observed originally as modified, metabolically and morphologically distinctive fibroblasts in granulation tissue during wound healing that show features of fibroblasts and smooth muscle cells (Gabbiani et al, 1971; Majno et al, 1971). These cells resemble fibroblasts but share mechanical properties, cytoskeletal proteins, biosynthetic phenotype, responses to external stimuli with smooth muscle cells (Schmitt-Graff et al, 1994; Powell et al, 1999). These cells express alpha-actin, which is normally typical of smooth muscle cells.

Some researchers refer to these cells as smooth muscle-like cells ... ... ... ... ... Subscribe to continue reading! ... ...